Black Zigzag Moth
Common NameBlack Zigzag Moth
Scientific NameDysgonia algira
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsblack, grey, white
HabitatWoodlands, open forests, riverbanks, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, Central Asia, extending to parts of India and China
Host Plantswillow, poplar, bramble, oak, elm
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay eggs on host plants. The larvae are typically greyish-brown with darker markings, feeding on leaves. They pupate in a cocoon, often on the ground or in leaf litter, before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsThe unique and prominent black and white/grey zigzag pattern on the forewings is highly characteristic, making it relatively easy to identify. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its intricate cryptic pattern of dark brown/black and pale grey/white zigzag bands across its forewings, and a hairy, mottled grey-brown body.
